Can medicare advantage plans receive discounts on yervoy?

Availability of Discounts for Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage (MA) plans can receive discounts on Yervoy (ipilimumab), but the availability and terms of these discounts vary [1]. As of the knowledge cutoff date, some Medicare Advantage plans offer discounts on Yervoy, often in the form of negotiated prices with pharmaceutical manufacturers.

Medicare Part D Coverage and Yervoy Discounts

Under Medicare Part D, MA plans are allowed to negotiate prices with pharmaceutical manufacturers, including Bristol-Myers Squibb, the developer of Yervoy [2]. However, the specifics of these discounts and any applicable copays or coinsurance vary between plans.

Medicare.gov and Plan Information

To determine if a given Medicare Advantage plan offers discounts on Yervoy, Medicare beneficiaries can visit the Medicare.gov website to research and compare plans [3]. Additionally, beneficiaries can review the plan's formulary (list of covered medications) to see if Yervoy is included and what discounts or copays may apply.

DrugPatentWatch.com and Yervoy Exclusivity

As of the knowledge cutoff date, the patent exclusivity for Yervoy was not yet expiring, which may impact the prices and availability of the medication for Medicare Advantage plans [4]. Medicare beneficiaries should consult with their plan administrator and healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information on Yervoy prices and discounts.

Sources:

[1] www.cms.gov (Medicare Advantage and Part D information)
[2] www.bms.com (Bristol-Myers Squibb and Yervoy information)
[3] www.medicare.gov (Medicare.gov and Plan Comparison Tool)
[4] www.drugpatentwatch.com (Yervoy patent and exclusivity information)